I led Ndigbo to Abuja for Kanu’s release four years ago — Soludo

By EMMA ELEKWA, Onitsha

Candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the November 6 governorship election in Anambra State, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, said he facilitated the release of leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in 2017.

He pledged continued protection of interest of people of the Southeast in their various endeavours, including incorporating them in his administration.

Soludo, who spoke at a political rally in Attani, Ogbaru Local Government Area, said he needed to remind his audience of such significant role he played in view of the need of a formidable force for the negotiation of Igbo progress in Nigeria.

He said welfare of the people of the zone was achievable through proper dialogue and negotiation as opposed to arms struggle and destruction of lives and property.

He said: “Let me remind us that I have been championing the course of Igbos. In 2017, when Nnamdi Kanu was refused bail; I led 12-prominent personalities from Igboland to Kuje Prison, where we facilitated his release.

“I was the one that addressed journalists after the visit and a few days later, he was released. By that time, I did not know him. I am recalling this because we need to form a formidable force that will negotiate the progress and status of Igbos in Nigeria.

“We need a platform, where Igbos will be in the forefront and not at the rear, and APGA is the platform.”

Describing APGA leadership under Gov. Willie Obiano as the best that had touched every facet of development, the former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor said the party was striving for greater speed to development and provision of basic infrastructures.

He also promised to deploy his professionalism and expertise in governing the state with commencement of a simultaneous urban renewal programme. (The Nation)